GNC MLA threatens hunger strike
SHILLONG: Firebrand Garo National Council (GNC) legislator Clifford Marak has threatened to sit on an indefinite hunger strike from the 26th of this month in front of Chief Minister Dr. Mukul Sangma’s private residence in Tura unless the government unconditionally releases the arrested students who have been deported to Jowai jail.
Addressing a press conference here on Friday, the GNC chief criticized the Dr. Mukul Sangma-led government for the arrest and deportation of the students.
“The government has time till the 25th of this month to release the students unconditionally. If they fail to do so I shall launch my indefinite hunger strike in front of Mukul Sangma’s residence in Hawakhana (Tura),” warned the GNC chief.
He also attacked the State Government for its alleged iron hand tactics in dealing with the students.
“Arresting students and booking them under MPDA and deporting to another part of the State has never happened before. Now such a situation is taking place under the Mukul Sangma Government,” said Marak, while hinting that the district administration might have been instructed by the Chief Minister to take action and crackdown on the Garoland movement.
The Chokpot MLA also ridiculed Tura Deputy Commissioner Pravin Bakshi for alleging molestation of his staff by students during the DC office incident last week.
“Molestation is a very serious charge in Garo Hills and if it had happened why did the administration not file an FIR immediately and seek medical examination? The DC was not even present in Tura and he has levelled such a charge. He should apprise himself with the Garo laws before levelling such accusations,” said Marak.
On the matter relating to the search conducted in his house by a police party, the GNC president stated that he will move the Assembly Privilege Committee before the start of the House session.
The GNC legislator also censured the Chief Minister for not implementing the Inner Line Permit (ILP), despite the ongoing agitation in the State.
Asked about the detrimental impact of the frequent bandhs called in Garo Hills, Marak said, “There is no way out. Bandhs are being called to demand for a separate state and for the benefit of the people.”
The GNC leader also shot off an open letter to the Chief Minister demanding immediate release of the arrested students who were part of the Garo Hills State Movement Committee (GHMSC).